By Mikee Natinga Norico
Congratulations, Engr. Jebie Balagosa, Ph.D., Associate Professor of the CPU College of Engineering, on your appointment as Associate Editor of the International Journal of Geo-Engineering (IJGE).
Central Philippine University (CPU) celebrates another milestone in academic excellence as Engr. Jebie Balagosa, Ph.D., Geotechnical Engineer, DOST-PCIEERD Balik Scientist Awardee, and Associate Professor at the CPU College of Engineering, has been appointed Associate Editor of the International Journal of Geo-Engineering (IJGE). This prestigious appointment highlights his expertise and unwavering dedication to the field.
The International Journal of Geo-Engineering, published by Springer Singapore, is a leading international forum for research and innovation in geotechnical and geological engineering. Its broad scope covers topics ranging from rock mechanics and ground motion to the reuse of construction waste in sustainable engineering projects. Recognized as a Q1 journal with an impressive impact factor of 7.1, IJGE holds a strong reputation and influence within the global academic community.
In an interview, Engr. Balagosa expressed deep gratitude upon learning of his appointment:
“I felt very humbled and grateful. This is truly a blessed opportunity, and I see it as both an honor and a responsibility. For me, it is not just a personal achievement but also an opportunity to serve the wider geo-engineering community. I thanked God and remembered the many people—my mentors, colleagues, and students—who have supported me in this journey.”
The IJGE website officially recognizes Engr. Jebie Balagosa’s role as Associate Editor, affirming his pioneering contributions to sustainable geotechnics.
He explained that his selection began with a recommendation from his professor and mentor, supported by his strong research track record, international collaborations, and experience as a reviewer for leading journals. His pioneering work in sustainable geotechnics, particularly in soil stabilization using biomass and industrial by-products, and his studies on bentonite buffer materials for nuclear waste repositories, were among the factors that contributed to his recognition.
As an Associate Editor, Engr. Balagosa will help safeguard the integrity of the publication process by overseeing manuscript submissions, assigning peer reviewers, and ensuring that published works meet the highest scientific standards.
“An Associate Editor acts as a steward of the publication process. My role is to make sure that knowledge is communicated fairly, rigorously, and with scientific excellence,” he shared.
Notably, Engr. Balagosa is the first Filipino to serve as Associate Editor of IJGE, a fact that brings both personal pride and national representation.
“Professionally, it affirms that even from Iloilo and CPU, we can engage with the global research community. Being the first Filipino in this role makes this appointment even more meaningful,” he said.
He emphasized that this recognition proves how local academic institutions like CPU can produce research of global impact.
Engr. Balagosa’s research has two major tracks that highlight both scientific innovation and practical application—factors that strongly contributed to his selection as Associate Editor of IJGE:
- Sustainable Ground Improvement – His studies on industrial and agricultural by-products such as rice husk ash, wood pellet fly ash, and blended binders have demonstrated how local waste can be transformed into construction materials, advancing the principles of the circular economy.
- Bentonite for Engineered Barrier Systems (EBS) – Conducted in collaboration with the Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute, his research evaluates bentonite’s hydromechanical and seismic properties, critical in designing barriers for high-level radioactive waste repositories.
At CPU, he continues to mentor students and colleagues, write proposals, and work toward establishing a geotechnical laboratory to reduce reliance on outside facilities, strengthening both local capacity and global collaboration.
Engr. Balagosa offered words of encouragement to CPU students and young researchers:
“Stay faithful, work hard, and remain humble. Achievements and appointments are meaningful, but they should never be the ultimate goal. What truly matters is doing good and maintaining integrity in your work—the solutions we create for society, the resilience we help build in our communities, and the example we set for others.”
He further emphasized that consistency, curiosity, collaboration, and faith are key in reaching global recognition—even when starting from Iloilo.
Engr. Balagosa’s appointment is not only a testament to his academic and professional excellence but also a proud moment for CPU and the Philippines. His story highlights how dedication, collaboration, and faith can elevate local research to the international stage, inspiring the next generation of engineers to dream big while staying grounded in service.
For more information, visit:
- IJGE Homepage – Learn more about the International Journal of Geo-Engineering, its latest published articles, aims, scope, and how it serves as a platform for innovative research in the field of geo-engineering.
- IJGE Editorial Board – View the distinguished roster of international scholars and researchers who serve as editors of the journal, including Engr. Jebie Balagosa’s profile as the newest Associate Editor.
- Dr. J. Balagosa’s Google Scholar Profile – Access a comprehensive list of Engr. Balagosa’s published works, citations, and research contributions that highlight his impact in sustainable geotechnics and engineering.
- ORCID Profile – Explore Engr. Balagosa’s official ORCID record, which provides verified information about his academic background, research collaborations, and professional achievements.